GULF COAST Issue 217 July / August 2019 - WRITTEN BY GALVESTON COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS IN COOPERATION - Texas A&M University
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WRITTEN BY GALVESTON COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS IN COOPERATION WITH THE GALVESTON COUNTY OFFICE OF TEXAS A&M AGRILIFE EXTENSION SERVICE GULF COAST Gardening Issue 217 • July / August 2019
2019 Master Gardener Association “Summertime is tree and several varieties that work in our
Leadership always the best of growing region.
President what might be”
Sharon Zaal
Charles Bowden If you have some challenging parts of your
Sr. Vice President
Kathy Maines lawn or yard, perhaps a groundcover might
VP for Programs This issue of our news- take care of that problem. Learn about
Denny & Nancy Noh, Education Programs
Judy Anderson, Monthly Meetings letter brings many topi- groundcovers and several selections on page
By Camille Goodwin
Discovery Garden Coordinator MG 2008 cal summer articles 14. Do you like succulents and easy to grow
Kevin Lancon and educational pieces plants? The Desert Rose might be just what
VP for Projects
Clyde Holt, Jenny Hudgins, Stewart McAdoo,
for you to enjoy. What’s a Galveston summer you’re looking for, page 16.
Robin Collins, Julie Cartmill, Judy Anderson, without insects? Learn about several differ-
Joanne Hardgrove and Tish Reustle
ent insects and control methods for the fall Along with insects, it’s not summer along
VP for Volunteer Development
Peggy Budny and Ann Anderson webworms (page 4) and a less than brilliant the Gulf Coast without weeds. Our Weed of
VP for Media Relations horse fly that visited one of our Discovery the Month article features Mare’s Tail. Now is
Nita Caskey
Garden hoop houses (page 5). The peculiar the peak bloom time for Mare’s Tail. Find out
Secretaries
Briana Etie and Joanne Hardgrove Spittle Bug is featured on page 8. more about it and control methods on page
Treasurers 18. Our very own peripatetic Master Rosarian,
Ed Klein and Debra Brizendine With our Gulf Coast summer heat, humid- John Jons, recently visited several botanical
Newsletter Editors
ity and sometimes torrential rains, it takes a gardens in New Zealand and shares videos of
Linda Steber and Robin Stone Collins
MG Intern Course Team Leader special plant to survive much less thrive. The his travels and wanderings (page 23).
Peggy Budny story on page 6 tells us about Texas Superstar
Fellowship
Penny Bessire
Hospitality Coordinators
Judy Anderson, Lori & Keith Boydston
and Jackie Auer
Speakers Bureau Coordinator
4 5 6 10 12 14
Nancy Langston-Noh and Betty Webb
16 18 23 25 26 31
MG Volunteer Hour Recorders
Wayne Elliott, Dr. Margaret Canavan
and Linda Steber
Jr. Master Gardener Programs Leaders
Kaye Corey, Dana Crawford and
Gayle McAdoo
plants; what makes them superstars and offers Discover more about 5 of our hardworking
Plant Sale Chairmen
Ira Gervais and Kevin Lancon options that you might like to try in your own Master Gardeners and how they came by
Photography Team Leaders landscapes. As in all parts of life, deformities their “Green Genes.” Jerlee Owens, Don and
Herman Auer, Tom Fountain occur. In the horticulture world, plant malfor- Joanne Hogarth and Denny and Nancy Noh
and Chris Anastas
Videographers
mations are known as Fasciation. Read about are featured on page 20. Then enjoy meeting
Barbara Hankins this fascinating subject on page 10. Master Gardener Mary Gonzales. See her
State Association Delegates inspiring story on page 22. Read about Dr. J's
Terry and Velda Cuclis
Most gardeners know about perlite, but prob- 30 year anniversary celebration on Page 24.
State Association Alternate Delegate
Ira Gervais and Sharon Zaal ably don’t think about it often. The article on Our regular and recurring monthly features
Grants & Inkind Support Coordinator page 9 tells us what it actually is and how have been updated including the Discovery
Frank Jackson
it benefits our gardens. Figs are one of my Garden doings, seasonal bites, volunteer op-
Webmaster
Genevieve Benson favorite fruits. My own fig tree produces figs, portunities on the bulletin board, and upcom-
CEA-HORT and Master Gardener but they never seem to ripen. On the day they ing training events. Dr. Johnson’s Last Word,
Program Coordinator
do ripen, the birds, squirrels and raccoons on page 31 tells us about Inviting Butterflies
Dr. William M. Johnson
decimate the tree! Evidently those figs are to your Landscape.
Board of Directors
Julie Cartmill, Camille Goodwin, not for me, but for you, please read page 12
Tim Jahnke, Tish Reustle and
Frank Resch – Chairman
to understand more about the beautiful fig Summer should be issued speeding tickets!
Inside This Issue...
How to Reach Us
2 Intro by MG Camille Goodwin
3 How to Reach Us
4 Q & A: Webworms by MG Laurel Stine
5 The Horse Fly by MG Joyce McNeely Extension Office:
281-309-5065
6 The Superstar Plants in the E-K Garden by MG Judy Anderson
galvcountymgs@gmail.com
8 Spittle Bug by MG Intern Hedy Wolpa
To Submit Newsletter Articles:
9 What is Perlite? by MG Debbie Expinosa
Contact Linda Steber
10 Exquisite Mutations by MG Camille Goodwin 281-534-6695
12 Fig Trees by MG Elayne Kouzounis steber8@msn.com
14 Island Time by MG Jan Brick We encourage your articles!
16 Desert Rose by MG Donna Ward Due the 20th of each month.
18 Mare's Tail Weed by MG Alisa Rasmussen Speakers Bureau:
19 Montezuma Bald Cypress by MG Margaret Canavan Nancy Langston-Noh
@ 832-289-7087 and
20 TMGA Conference 2020
Betty Webb @ 281-630-0103
21 Genista Caterpillar by MG Joanne Hardgrove gcmg.speakersbureau@gmail.com
22 Green Genes by MG Karolyn Gephart
24 Meet Galveston County Master Gardener Mary Gonzales
by MG Tish McDaniel
25 Rose Garden by MG John Jons
26 Dr. J 30 Year Service by MG Barbara Canetti Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides
equal opportunities in its programs and
27 Discovery Garden by MG Tom Fountain employment to all persons, regardless of race,
28 Seasonal Bites by MG Sandra Gervais color, sex, religion, national origin, disability,
age, genetic information, veteran status,
29 Minutes sexual orientation, or gender identity.
30 Upcoming Events by MG Nita Caskey The Texas A&M University System, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, and the County
31 Recertification Hours Commissioners Courts of Texas cooperating.
32 Bulletin Board by MG Linda Steber
33 Last Word - Invite Butterflies into Your Landscape
by Dr. William M. Johnson
34 Monthly Meetings and Invitation by MG Judy Anderson
Cover: To subscribe to our newsletter, just click
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Q&A
ask a master gardener
What is causing this large web draped over
my tree?
Q: I have large webs draped over some of the When treating, first check if caterpillars are still present in the webs.
branches of my pecan trees. What is causing this? Often, by the time nests are noticed the caterpillars have already left,
making treatment unnecessary and ineffective.
A: These webs are produced by Fall Webworms.
The Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea (Drury) Hose-end or commercial high-pressure sprayers are best for reaching
is native to North America and is a common upper parts of trees. Webworm larvae stay inside their web so insecti-
caterpillar pest of trees. cide sprays must penetrate the web to be most effective. For best control,
apply insecticides when webs and caterpillars are small.
Fall Webworms are not picky eaters. With the
exceptions of pines and other conifers, it attacks Remember, you are responsible for the effects of pesticides on your
By Laurel Stine more than 88 kinds of plants in North America, own property, as well as problems caused by drift to other properties.
MG 1996 including many fruit, nut, and ornamental trees
Insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad are effec-
and shrubs.
tive and will not harm beneficial insects. There are other products avail-
The fall webworm’s name is somewhat misleading because the cater- able as well. Follow the label directions on whatever products you use.
pillars can have two to four generations per year and produce tents
Apply products in the early morning or evening to concentrate the
during late summer and fall.
spray on the tents where the caterpillars congregate.
Their webs are made of a silk protein, somewhat similar to that pro-
There is another web producing caterpillar called a Tent Caterpillar,
duced by silkworms. These webs are water resistant and provide protec-
but the closest occurrence of that insect to our area is up by the Mercer
tion for the insects. The webs initially start at the tip of branches and
Aboretum area.
can eventually extend all the way down to the trunk of a tree. Extreme
infestations may cover the whole tree. If you own a Texas Mountain Laurel tree, you may have been visited by
another web producing caterpillar, the Genista caterpillar (Uresiphita
Heavy infestations are rarely fatal on mature trees, but if they occur
reversalis (Guenèe). Other hosts are crape myrtle and honeysuckle.
over several years, they can make trees more susceptible to drought,
disease, or other insect pests. Genista caterpillars occur commonly in central Texas landscapes and
throughout the Gulf coast. They form loose webbing on the foliage
Beneficial insects as well as birds and lizards can reduce fall webworm
and feed on leaves causing unsightly damage.
caterpillar populations in many years, especially if you are able to tear
open the webs. Plant health is generally unaffected by feeding unless large numbers
of caterpillars cause heavy defoliation. In these cases, plant growth
Fall webworms can be managed on smaller trees without insecticides.
may be slowed, and aesthetic damage may be significant. Control is
You can do this by physically removing the webs, caterpillars, or egg
generally unwarranted, but if you have a heavy infestation in a high-
masses. You can knock larvae out of low-hanging webs into a box or
value landscape, pest control or suppression may be needed. Genista
garbage bag with a stick or broom. You can also prune webs from
caterpillars can be controlled with the same products as those used
lower and smaller branches or pull them down with a rake or a pole.
against Fall Webworms.
If webs are too numerous or too high in a tree to deal with individually,
you can use insecticides to prevent damage. Photos and websites used are below (you can tell Featured Creatures
had a great website)
Adult Eggs and newly hatched larvae Second instar larvae Fifth instar larva Cocoon of Fall Webworm
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/trees/moths/fall_webworm.htm
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 4
The Horse Fly
The Amazing Horse Fly of Galveston County matter and even small organisms. Depending on the species, this
“Learning to fly…But I ain’t got wings…” This larval stage can last from one to three years. Shockingly right! That
is the Tom Petty song that popped into my seems like very long time for a fly. One generation per year, for a fly.
head the morning when I saw a HUGE horse Amazing!
fly in the hoop house at the Discovery Garden.
As adults, female horse flies bite to get a blood meal. They need
In early June I was entering the hoop house to protein from the blood to help produce the next generation. They
get some watering done and heard some very use their sharp mouth parts to cut skin or hide of a grazing animal,
loud buzzing over my head. My mind im- let the blood pool and drink. Male horse flies are the gentler of the
By Joyce McNeely mediately went to, “Oh great, there is a wasp species and are more interested in flowers and are nectar feeders. [I
MG 2018
in here. I have to watch out for it (I am not a guess they are the hippies of the fly world.] Both are diurnal; active
fan).” As I was looking for what was making only during daylight hours. These large flies can cause problems
the sound, I saw what I thought sort of looked like a wasp, but not. I with horses, cattle and other grazing animals. Blood loss of livestock
looked closer and realized it was an extremely large fly! It was easily can also be an issue if dealing with a seasonal mass of these horse
over an inch long. flies, so protecting livestock is important. Any persistent attack can
cause a reduction in weight gain and even reduced milk produc-
Not only was this fly loudly buzzing, but it was also persistently
tion in cattle. Protection can come in the form of a shaded barn,
flirting with a nice sized Orb Spider up in the corner (We call her
permethrin-based sprays and mesh screens to enclose a shelter.
Charlotte #3, but that’s a story for another time.) My friend Mary
Now if you are a human trying to prevent bites, using repellents that
hollered a warning, “That is a Horse Fly! And they BITE!” Now I
contain DEET are most effective. Seems both man and beast are not
had heard, once upon a time, that horse flies bite and could be quite
immune to the pain and irritation of a horse fly bite. Ouch!
painful, but I didn’t know much more than that. So I mentioned to
Mary, “Maybe we will get lucky and the spider will take care of it.” It When I returned to the hoop house about an hour later I found our
seemed to be flirting with disaster and was flying all around that spi- spider, Charlotte #3, had the irritating horse fly properly wrapped
der web like it was looking for a spider meal. But who would actually up in her silken web and ready for a future meal. I was amazed and
end up as the meal? snapped pictures of Mother Nature in action. It really is cool to see
all the amazing insects at work in the Discovery Garden, even if they
The Horse Fly species tend to develop in muddy areas, along pond
do sometimes make me think of a song and a story.
edges, wetlands and streams. Females will lay batches of eggs on
plants that lean over water and wet/muddy areas. We have had quite To my surprise, the fly with wings, that could easily have flown away,
a bit of rain at the garden lately, and with wet comes mud. The larvae did not. She should have used Mr. Petty’s advice. Evidently, coming
will drop into the swampy areas and feed on decomposing organic down is the hardest thing.
Horse Fly The Spider The Horse fly and the Spider
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 5
Singing the Praises of the Superstar
Plants in the Earth-Kind Garden
When the Master Gardener Iterns begin their Discovery
Garden assignment they rotate through the different areas
of the Discovery Garden. As each one visits the Earth-Kind
area it is a good time for me to walk with them through
the area and take a look at what is happening. Yes, there
are always weeds, but I am often surprised by the beautiful
plants and their flowers. There is abundant color, scent
and texture.
By Judy Anderson
MG 2012 Often the standouts are the Texas Superstars. If you are
not familiar with the Texas Superstars, these plants are
recognized as great performers around the state. They are grown in field trials at
Lubbock, Overton, College Station and San Antonio as part of the Texas A&M
AgriLife Research and the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. As part of the
trial, the plants are grown with limited soil preparation, with normal water and
without any chemicals. Only the plants that grow well in these conditions, in all Alamo Fire
locations, are even considered for the Superstar status. They also have to meet
marketing standards for availability, appearance and transportation. Plants that
can meet these additional requirements may be called Texas Superstars.
The Superstar program is a partnership with research, growers and distribution to
ensure successful plants reach the consumer. The Texas A&M System, Go Texan
and the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association created the Texas Superstar
program in the mid 90’s and it continues to bring the winners to the public. The
program now includes vegetables, trees and specialty plants along with ornamen-
tals. Plants that are recognized as Texas Superstars are unique and better than the
rest. If they have a good story or interesting history, that improves their odds, but
most of all they should be easy to grow.
Here on the Gulf Coast we need plants that tolerate heat and humidity, can with-
stand a drought, but also withstand a heavy rain. Being disease resistant is also an
important quality. Deer-resistant and attractive to pollinators are traits that will be
of value around the state. Other states have their own version of Texas Superstar
- Louisiana Select and Oklahoma Proven. Mystic Spires
The Texas Department of Agriculture publishes the Texas Superstar brochure; it
was last published in 2016. Plants become Superstars through plant breeding, a
recognized sport, a new introduction by the industry, rediscovery and through
trials. Sometimes people think the Earth-Kind and Texas Superstars are the same
thing, but they are very different. Earth-Kind is a plan for gardening, and there
are Earth-Kind plants. Texas Superstars are a plant collection. In the Earth-Kind
Discovery Garden, there are many Texas Superstars. Most of them have been there
for years, or since 2013 when the garden was established.
A favorite is the Princess Caroline Napier Grass. If you want a purple grass in your
landscape, check this one out. It is a strong purple leaf with a dark green underside.
It grows from 4 to 6 feet in full sun or part shade. It is lovely as an accent plant or
a screen. When the sun shines behind it, it becomes spectacular.
Another beauty is the Peppermint Flare Hibiscus. It grows on maple-like, bright
green foliage, from 3 to 5 feet tall. This striking plant is a stunner in the landscape, Napier Grass
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 6
but also can be grown in a container. The pink flower is about ten inches wide
with stripes of pink to red color.
The Earth-Kind Garden is a raised bed and it is nice to have plants spilling over
the side. One plant that fits this need is the Trailing Lantana. It is a low growing
plant of lavender, purple and white flowers that blooms consistently through the
summer. It is tolerant of heat, wind and drought.
A plant that will always look great, even with minimal care, is the Mexican Bush
Sage. It blooms late into fall and is heat and water tolerant. The purple color is
eye-catching and the flowers are beautiful in arrangements. Full sun is a must.
Mystic Spires Blue Salvia is a more compact form of the Indigo Spires and a sure
bloomer through the summer. The color is a true blue with growth from 18 to 30
inches. Pruning in the summer will encourage regrowth, but do not over water
or fertilize this plant.
The Henry Duelberg is a native plant with masses of blue flowers that can be used in Peppermint Flare
containers; it is ideal in drought tolerant gardens and is beautiful in arrangements.
This is a low maintenance, heat tolerant plant that will bloom from spring until fall.
Texas Superstar Blue Cape Plumbago really becomes a star when the Texas heat
goes up. It is comfortable in full or part shade with growth up to 4 feet tall and 5
feet wide. Dead heading will encourage re-blooming. This plant is often called “sky
flower” because of the sky-blue color of its flowers and it tolerates the humidity.
Belinda’s Dream is a hit in any garden. It needs full sun and does well with drip
irrigation. It always seems to be blooming and is frequently used with cut flowers.
Dead heading will encourage reblooming. This rose grows on bluish-green foliage
with a pale pink traditional flower producing a fragrant scent.
In the “Red Hot” section of the Earth-Kind garden you can’t miss the Pride-of-
Barbados; this eye-catching tree with red and orange flowers loves the Texas heat,
humidity and is even drought tolerant, but must have good drainage. Another
great asset for this plant is the airy texture of the foliage. Place it next to traditional
Belinda's Dream Plumbago
plants and it will be a standout.
One of the features in the Earth-Kind Garden is the outline of Texas where we have
the Maroon Bluebonnets planted. The goal is to have Maroon Bluebonnets, now
called “Alamo Fire,” blooming in the spring throughout the Texas outline. Any
other bluebonnets in this area would need to be removed to preserve the Alamo
Fire color. Seeds will be planted each fall until we have the Earth-Kind Texas fully
blooming with Alamo Fire in the spring.
Traditional Bluebonnets grow in the west end of the Earth-Kind Garden. In this
area, they are allowed to reseed naturally. These are the traditional blue spikes
with the white tipped bunny tail. It is common along the roadways of Texas.
These plants are very hardy, but can be encouraged by a well-balanced fertilizer
applied in the fall.
Visit the Discovery Gardens on the Thursday workdays and check out the Earth-
Kind Garden collection of Texas Superstars. Better yet, add some Superstars to
your own garden. Earth-Kind Garden
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 7
Spittlebugs and Froghoppers
It might look like someone passing though your bubbles have formed, spittlebugs use their hind legs to cover themselves
garden decided to spit on one of your prized with the froth. The spittle serves multiple purposes:
plants or flowers. Yuck…right? That foamy, white
1. It shields the spittlebugs from predators.
spittle is actually concealing a nymph or young
2. It insulates them from temperature extremes.
spittlebug, that, when mature, will develop into
3. It prevents the spittlebugs from dehydrating.
a more familiar insect, the froghopper.
The nymph is pale yellow-green in color and looks like a miniature
Entomology experts tell us that the “spittle” itself
wingless version of an adult. It molts several times until it reaches the
is harmless to your plants. And while the nymphs
By Hedy Wolpa size of an adult insect. The adult froghopper lives about 23 days, and
MG 2018 and adults do suck juices from your plants, only
two generations can cycle in a year. They’re typically seen from June
a large infestation will do serious harm to your
through September in the nymph-to-adult stages, and are most no-
garden. The best and fastest way to get rid of spittlebugs is a power-
ticeable in their immature stage, feeding on host plants and producing
ful spray of water. But some gardeners choose to remove all infested
masses of that frothy spittle. The nymph develops inside the spittle
vegetation and destroy it so any froghopper eggs that might otherwise
over about 6-7 weeks, with 4-5 instars.
overwinter will be eliminated.
Nymphs and adults use their piercing-sucking mouth parts to punc-
The Greenhouse Team in the Discovery Garden showed me the
ture and suck juices from plants leaving stunted, dwarfed, weakened
spittlebug situation in the Propagation Bed a couple of weeks ago, and
plants. While heavy feeding can lead to distortion of the plant, dam-
expressed concern that the pest could move into the greenhouse. To
age is usually negligible and control with a pesticide is typically not
help explain their presence and to inform MGs about their life cycle,
needed. In extreme cases, spittlebugs can reduce plant yields of flowers
here’s some research and photos.
or fruits. As suggested above, if you should have a severe infestation
Spittlebugs/froghoppers, Philaenus spumarius, belong to the Family of spittlebugs, remove and destroy plant debris in the fall and till the
Ceropidae and Order Homoptera, true bugs. The adult froghopper soil to reduce egg population.
is about .25 to .50 inches long, has an oval frog-like face, and it does
“hop” around the garden. Its hind legs are strong and well developed,
helping it jump up to 27 inches from plant to plant. It has two pairs of
wings and three pairs of legs. The front pair of wings sits tent-like over
the body and can resemble a false head to confuse its predators, which
are mainly birds, spiders, and frogs. Its mouthparts are designed for
stabbing and extracting, or sucking, sap from plant tissue.
The adult froghopper varies in color, depending on the species: most
are black, white, or brown colored. Some have colorful orange or yellow
mottling on their back; some have two orange-red horizontal stripes,
called “two-lines”; and other adult species have no markings. But you’ll
recognize their characteristic quick hopping movements and the two
pair of wings if you see them in your garden. Spittlebug photo courtesy MG Hedy Wolpa
The life cycle of a spittlebug/froghopper consists of three develop-
mental stages: egg, nymph, and adult insect. Spittlebug eggs are laid
in late summer and are left to over-winter on plant debris. The eggs
will hatch in early spring and attach themselves to a plant and begin
feeding. They are a wingless, green creature at this point and are almost
invisible inside the spittle.
Spittle forms when they mix liquid waste products with a mucous secre-
tion, whipping air bubbles with fingerlike appendages located at the tip
of the abdomen. It’s best described as a mixture of air and an excretion
from their alimentary canal. Spittlebug nymphs turn this liquid secre-
tion into bubbles by moving or pumping their bodies. Once the frothy Froghopper photo courtesy Paula Nelson
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 8
What is Perlite?
Most of us have seen or used the light, white, fluffy
stuff called Perlite. My grandparents and parents
always kept bags of it in their vast array of garden-
ing supplies. I remember once being asked by my
Mom to open a bag of it while she prepared the soil
for planting. As I ripped the bag open with gusto,
out came the swirling, floating white particles and
I began yelling “it’s snowing.” My Mom was not
By Debbie Espinosa amused.
MG Intern 2019
So what exactly is perlite, or volcanic popcorn as it
is nicknamed, and how is it useful for gardening purposes. Fertile volcanic
areas have been settled since biblical times, and humans have been aware of
perlite at least since the third century B.C. As a naturally occurring mined Perlite
mineral, perlite is a nonrenewable resource and the major producers are
Greece, United States, Turkey and Japan.
Perlite is a form of glass, specifically, volcanic glass formed from the hydra-
tion of Obsidian and like most materials of volcanic origins, its colors run
from grey to black. Heating perlite to a range of 1,560-1,650 ⁰F (850-900
⁰C) causes the mineral to soften and as it does, water that is trapped in the
volcanic glass vaporizes and tries to escape. This causes the glass to expand
7-16 times its original volume and the remaining trapped air changes the
color from a dark to a brilliant white.
Perlite has a neutral pH level and contains no toxic chemicals. The chemi-
cal composition of perlite varies slightly, as most volcanic glass does, and
it typically consists of 70-75% silicon dioxide as well as the following
chemicals:
• aluminum oxide (12-15%) Perlite with New Cuttings
• sodium oxide (3-4%)
• potassium oxide (3-5%) favorable for worms, and other beneficial nematodes and organisms.
• iron oxide (0.5-2%) Regular soil is heavy and compacts over time and because perlite is mineral
• magnesium oxide (0.2-0.7%) glass and harder than the soil around it, it will slow down the compaction
• and calcium oxide (0.5-1.5%)
of your soil thus keeping it light and loose.
Benefits to Your Garden
There are three grades of perlite that you can buy depending on your gar-
As I did my final rotation in the Greenhouse at the Discovery Garden, dening project - coarse, medium or fine. Coarse perlite offers the highest
I was watching Mary Gonzales, the team leader for the Greenhouse, as air porosity and has the most drainage capacity. It is popular for people
she deftly put the new cuttings into the perlite containers in front of us. that grow succulents, cacti and orchids. Coarse perlite is also used for
We had also removed bigger, established cuttings that had been placed deeper soil cultivation in raised beds. The coarser perlite is also used in
in perlite containers weeks before, into larger containers and I could see hydroponics, as it keeps plants more open to air, while still having good
where the spindly roots had made their way through the perlite. As I water-retention properties. The medium grade is used in large container
did my research on the benefits of perlite, I found that perlite is a natural gardening or window boxes. The finer perlite is used for seed starting or
filtration system that allows excess water to drain away, while maintaining root cuttings as the drainage encourages rapid root production. You can
moisture and catching nutrients. Plants that have better drainage, reduce scatter fine perlite on your lawn and over time, it will work into the soil,
the risk of rotted roots. improving drainage.
Another benefit of perlite is, it aerates the soil allowing pockets of air to You may not be able to make a snowman out of perlite, but I’m sure that
remain which helps with the growth of a strong root system, making it you will be able to use the “snow” to grow a healthy, happy garden.
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 9
Exquisite Random Mutations
from the Plant World
Recently, while reading Next Door, a few com-
ments in the middle of a thread about Explo-
ration Green (the conservation and natural
recreation space) being developed in Clear Lake
City, had words like: radiation issue, mosquito
spray, caterpillar on flower, Frankenstein flower
so I was curious to see what everyone was talk-
ing about. A neighbor had been walking the
By Camille Goodwin area and noticed an odd-looking flower and
MG 2008 wondered what it was (see photos). Turns out it
was a Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) exhib-
iting a phenomenon known as plant fasciation. Fasciation is rare but
not uncommon and does occur in vascular plants where the apical
meristem (the growing tip), which normally produces cylindrical tis-
sue concentrated around a single point in predictable and organized
patterns, instead becomes elongated perpendicularly to the direction
of growth. The growing tissue may appear like several stems have been
melted or fused so it looks like a wide flattened and stretched ribbon.
Growth can also be fan-shaped, twisted or spiral, crested or elaborately
contorted, bent and coiled where numerous growing points may de-
velop to produce a witches’ broom effect. Flowers and blooms appear Black Eyed Susan Exploration Green,
at odd angles to stems and leaves, growing from distorted stems and photo courtesy Jan Irving
are smaller and more numerous than normal. This growth pattern is
referred to as band fasciation. Fasciation comes from the Latin word
fascia which means “a band” or “bundled.” Another rarer type known
as ring fasciation, has a ring-shaped growing point that produces a
hollow shoot. Fasciation may occur in the stem, root, fruit or flower
head. Fasciation has been identified in hundreds of different plant
species including ferns, woody plants, herbaceous annuals and peren-
nials, and fruits and vegetables. Coniferous and broad-leaved trees
and shrubs can bear fasciated branches.
Many factors are possible causes for these striking abnormal growth
mutations and can include exposure to frost, genetic, infection by
bacteria, viruses or phytoplasmas, feeding by insects or animals,
chemicals or mechanical damage. Somatic (body cell) mutations,
hormonal imbalance and environmental causes like extreme weather
have also been considered contributors to the oddity. While fasciation
affects the plant’s appearance, it has little to no effect on the health of
the plant and usually reverts back to normal during the next growth
cycle. The deformity is not communicable and doesn’t need to be
removed. In most cases this oddity occurs with no obvious cause.
Fasciation is not always considered a problem. The cockscomb celosia
(Celosia argentea var.cristata) is an example of a flower with inherited
fasciation and is grown because of its unusual flower heads. Ferns
with fasciated tips with names ‘monstrosa’ and ‘cristata’ are highly
collectable. Many cactus species are cultivated and sold for their Fasciated Date Palm. Courtesy Kenneth
fasciation features. Setzer, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 10Fasciated Cucumber Foxglove Fasciated Fasciated Saguaro Cactus
Fasciated Fire Spike. Courtesy Kenneth Sweet Potato Vine fasciated Fasciated Texas Bluebonnet
Setzer, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 11The Mighty Fig Tree
The mighty Fig tree itself is glamorous—wide Alma, a relatively new introduction from Texas A&M University, can
and spreading. Its huge bright green, deeply produce heavy crops at an early age, and the fruit quality is excellent.
lobed leaves spread out like giant hands. Mature When in doubt about which size tree to purchase - Bare-rooted: should
Fig plants reach 15 to 25 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet be 18 to 24 inches in size. Balled-and-burlapped: 24 to 36 inches.
across. Inside the foliage the figs emerge at the Container: 1, 2, or 5 gallon size.
nodes where the leaves are joined to the upright
You should plant the Bare-rooted in late winter and the Balled-and-
branches. Most figs are the size of small plums,
burlapped in late winter or spring.
By Elayne Kouzounis
in colors that range from pale green or yellow
MG 1998 to brown and deepest purple. For Training and Pruning: Allow young trees to develop as shrubs, with
several main trunks arising from the ground. Mature plants will require
Even though our winters are normally mild
little, if any, regular pruning. If winter damage should occur, remove
in comparison to those of other parts of the state, we do receive ap-
the deadwood in early spring, when its extent can be determined.
proximately 400 to 600 hours per year of chilling below 45°F. This may
seem like a lot, but actually it is not, especially where fruit trees are Large Fig trees require frequent and deep watering. If your leaves
concerned. For fruit varieties to grow and produce well, they must be wilt during the afternoon heat, or if your fruit is dropping freely, you
able to tolerate our low number of chilling hours. Besides the chilling may not be watering enough. Keep your soil thoroughly moistened,
requirement, successful varieties must be disease-resistant. Because especially as the fruit is forming. Beginning in the early fall you need
of our frequent rains and high humidity, we have serious fungus and to start cutting back on water to allow the plant to go dormant. Plants
bacterial problems with many fruit varieties. Selecting the correct that have slowed their growth for fall suffer less cold-weather injury.
disease-resistant varieties and using the proper preventive fungicide You do want to mulch around the plant with grass clippings or compost,
sprays will produce the best results. Fig trees should be planted in an both to conserve moisture and to also protect the plant against winter
area that drains well and that receives at least half a day’s FULL sun- damage to the trunks.
shine. Most Fig trees will begin to produce fruit after several years. It Figs have relatively low fertility needs. In poorer, sandy soils, you only
is advisable to plant your Fig tree in a container that can be protected need to feed in the spring with a complete-and-balanced plant food
during the winter or to plant it in the ground such as 12-12-12, one pound per inch of total
in an area with a southern exposure where trunk diameter. Always water thoroughly
the tree can be protected if necessary. after you have fed your plant. Otherwise,
do not apply commercial fertilizers to fig
Celeste, one of many Fig varieties that per-
plantings.
form well in this area, seems to combine
the best features of all. The fig, small and There is a tiny insect that causes fruit to be-
blue, is excellent for preserves and also come “sour” and inedible. This insect invades
delicious eaten fresh. This variety does not the fruit JUST as it ripens, through the open
require other trees for pollination. The figs “eye” at the end of the fruit. This insect which
are borne on new wood, and the trees are is called the DRIED FRUIT BEETLE infects
very cold-hardy. the fruit with microorganisms that cause its
Alma Breba Celeste
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 12deterioration. This is why you should select a variety with a “closed” ripen, often from July until frost on a well-established, older tree that
eye to avoid this problem. no longer experiences winter dieback.
There is another serious threat to Fig plants. NEMATODES - they are
Lastly, the fruit of the Fig tree is one of the oldest known cultivated
microscopic soil-borne worms. The roots of your plant develop KNOTS
fruits and provides an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and
where nematodes have fed. This cuts off the water and nutrients to the
potassium.
leaves of your plant. Try to follow a careful watering program so your
figs are never in stress. Mulch heavily and avoid stressful high-nitrogen Happiness is like jam, you can’t spread even a little without getting
fertilizers that could cause undue demand on the root systems. some on yourself.
When harvest time comes it is important to pick your figs just as they
ripen. The fig will not develop further once it’s been harvested. Also,
as much as possible try to REMOVE all the deteriorated fruit that you
can to prevent the spread of disease. DO NOT EAT immature fruit, as
its latex sap can irritate your mouth.
The following Fig varieties have “closed eyes” to lessen the chance of
the dried fruit beetle invasion.
Alma: This is a medium sized, cream colored fig. Productive and very
sweet. Somewhat cold-tender when young.
Celeste: This is a small, dark, high-quality fig that ripens in June. It is
vigorous and productive. Well adapted to all Texas fig areas. Delicious
preserved and eaten fresh.
Texas Everbearing: This fig has medium-to-large fruit, excellent
quality. It ripens in late June and for a continuing period thereafter.
The first crop, called BREBA figs, are produced on the past season’s
growth. These figs are larger and light brown. Later figs, borne on the
current season’s wood, will be smaller and somewhat darker. This is
a vigorous variety.
Figs made their first commercial product appearance with the intro-
duction of FIG NEWTON cookies in 1892.
Another point in their favor is the long season over which the fruits
Large Fig Tree
Texas Everbearing Texas Everbearing
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 13“Step on it…A Look at Hardy Ground Covers”
The Island Garden
Editor's Note: This is a reprint of Jan's article in the Galveston Monthly
“Not every plant in the landscape can be the star The use of walkways has become increasingly popular and a living path
of the show.” Whatever your main focal points or can be a delightful addition to any landscape. Using stepping stones or
central specimen choices, there is also the need for spaced brick patterns with low-growing plants between gives a natural
a supporting cast of shrubs, annuals and perenni- appearance. Several mat-forming species of groundcover are hardy
als. Small plants can do big work and groundcov- enough to tolerate light foot traffic and some varieties release a pleasant
ers fit well into the secondary role. fragrance when slightly crushed. For pathway use consider Thyme which
is a resilient groundcover for sunny locations with a fresh scent. Use the
A ground cover is any plant that grows over an area
non-culinary varieties such as red creeping thyme, mother-of-thyme and
By Jan Brick of ground; these plants provide protection from
woolley thyme. They will all form dense mats of attractive foliage. For
MG 2001 erosion of the topsoil as well as facilitating weed
shady walkways, the Blue Star Creeper is a beautiful selection with its
suppression. Groundcovers add texture, color and
masses of pale blue star-shaped blooms that appear in spring and early
interest to the garden with minimal maintenance. Ground covers can be
summer. It is also tough enough to accept light foot traffic if not allowed
used where grass is not wanted or may not grow well such as under trees
to dry out. Corsican Mint grows only about an inch in height in thick
or across areas in borders.
mats of aromatic foliage, prefers some sun but afternoon shade and is a
Evergreen groundcovers fashion a beautiful low care design and selecting delightful option between stepping stones as it exudes its spicy fragrance
those most suitable for our zone (zone 9) is not difficult but one should when lightly trod upon. Keep well-watered between rainfalls. The heat
consider that these choices must be sturdy enough to withstand our hot and drought resistant sedums also make ideal groundcovers for sunny
summer climate. Selections in this category include Beach Morning locations. Considered “tough as nails” sedum requires little attention or
Glory also called Ipomoea, bayhops or railroad vine that is fast growing care. Short varieties are best for this situation. Look for ‘Dragon’s Blood,’
and prolific, with sporadic bright pink blooms and is perfect for difficult ‘Tricolor’ or ‘Blue Spruce’ for pretty flowers that will attract butterflies.
areas. Other choices are the Pachysandra known as Japanese Spurge that Lirope, also known as lily turf is a popular groundcover for the Gulf coast
thrives in shade under trees, fast growing spreading into an attractive area as a low-maintenance hardy perennial plant that will grow in moist
green blanket, and the Japanese ardisia also called Marlberry and presents soil in partial shade to full sunlight. Lirope produces spikes of showy
itself as a low growing shrub with glossy leaves and small pink or white lavender purple or white blooms in late summer into fall with green or
flowers and prefers full or part shade. variegated foliage. There are clumping and creeping varieties that can reach
Beach Morning Glory Blue Star Creeper Blue Spruce Corsican Mint
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 14to two feet in height. Good for garden borders and sloping ground as well Groundcover Objectives and Solutions
as under trees where there may be little to no sunlight. The variety known What to plant on a slope?
as wishbone flower, clown flower or blue wings is an annual that does What to plant under a shade tree with protruding roots?
better in part to full shade with moist well-draining soil. The blossoms of What to plant in garden paths?
this type are trumpet-shaped in shades of purple, pink, white or yellow What to plant as a border along a driveway?
with contrasting throats and oval light green leaves. The Wishbone will
Carpets of Color…Flowering Ground Covers
produce vibrant color in the shadiest area of the garden.
Ajuga…easy care with colorful bronze, chocolate, bright green or var-
Groundcovers are a versatile garden choice and perfect for irregular terrain iegated foliage and flowers of blue or white, hardy, partial shade, good
and an attractive alternative to an expanse of sod waiting to be mowed, container plant.
fertilized and watered year after year. Why not remove a section of grass
Ajuga ‘bugleweed’…evergreen mint family, six inches in height, full sun,
and replace it with a low-maintenance focal point that is especially lovely
average soil, glossy leaves with light blue to white blooms in early summer.
in full bloom? Nearly any low-growing plant or combinations of can be
used as groundcover and when planted beneath ornamental shrubs can Creeping phlox…bold carpets of pink, blue or white blooms with small
inhibit the growth of weeds. Remember that native or adapted variet- evergreen leaves, may grow to six inches in height during full bloom, good
ies will be hardier and require the least maintenance. Mixing types of over slopes, can tolerate light foot traffic, sun to part shade.
evergreen groundcovers will provide interest in the off season of winter
Soapwort… compact form, pink, red or white blooms, use for garden
and early spring by delivering an attractive palette of color, texture and
paths and rock gardens.
height. Pay close attention to descriptions of plant heights as you make
your selections. You don’t want to shop for a ground-hugger to plant
between paving stones and come home with a two-foot spike variety.
Why not consider these low-maintenance landscape solutions for your
garden areas; create rich and varied carpets of color for your habitat.
Groundcovers that bloom can be stunning as well as functional.
Ajuga-Bugleweed Ajuga Creeping-Phlox Soapwort
Dragon's Blood Lirope Pachysandra Tricolor
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 15A Rose is a Rose is a Rose
“A rose is a rose is a rose.” American author and
poetess Gertrude Stein used that phrase in a
poem she wrote in 1913. It has been interpreted
to mean: “Things are what they are.” In today’s
vernacular we’d probably say - “It is what it is.”
Shakespeare wrote “A rose by any other name....”
but he was referring to Juliet’s love, Romeo Mon-
tague. I doubt that either of these famous authors
By Donna Ward
MG 1996
had ever heard of an Adenium obesum commonly
referred to as a desert rose. It’s also known by sev-
eral other names, Sabi star, mock azalea, kudu and impala lily. It’s not a
rose, and it has no thorns, but instead is a low-water succulent native to
Africa and the Arabian Peninsula where it grows so large it is sometimes
used as a hedge. But here, gardening hobbyists grow it as a pot plant - it
loves our sun and sizzling temperatures.
The native habitats of the desert rose experience long extended dry sea-
sons. Consequently, they store water in their underground roots to allow
them to survive lengthy periods of drought. They prefer a well-draining
succulent potting mix, with a slightly acidic pH of around 6.0. Fertil-
ize only during spring and summer when they are in active growth and
blooming. Unlike most flowering plants that like a high middle number
(phosphorous) the desert rose prefers a balanced 13-13-13. They can’t
survive cold temperatures, so potted, can be moved indoors in colder
weather. Its tight clusters of shiny green leaves, and tubular flowers are
quite attractive, but its most eye-catching attribute is the swollen basal
caudex. Below soil level the roots store water and swell significantly.
You’ll know when it is ready to repot, as the soil level rises because the
swollen roots are displacing the growing medium. Mine are repotted
approximately every three years or so. I lift them gently from their pot
and remove all soil from the roots. This is done easily with a jet of water
from a garden hose. The exposed swollen roots will be knobby, twisted
and quite fascinating in appearance. Spread the lower roots and place
it back in the pot with fresh soil but pot it higher, placing the swollen
caudex above the soil level. The exposed caudex may have several tiny
roots still attached. Some growers leave them be as they will eventually
die off, but patience is not one of my virtues, so a small sharp pruning
clipper does the job for me.
Most common are the pink and red flowering specimens, but there are
other colors available. There are now bicolor flowers, white and a very
dark ‘black’ variety. Flowers are usually about two inches in diameter,
and tubular in shape.
It is imperative that the desert rose be potted in a well-draining medium.
Root rot is its greatest enemy. My preference is a shallow, tapered clay
pot as opposed to straight sides therefore promoting good drainage.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the root dimension. This is also a
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 16way to control the plant’s size. I have one plant 20 plus years old, and it of the big box stores. They tend to be a bit on the pricy side but bear in
has been living in the same pot as long as I’ve had it. Don’t be tempted mind that they take several years of growth to develop the beautiful basal
to place in a much larger pot, as the additional soil will not dry out fast caudex, not to mention the repotting practices. Once you have your own
enough and root rot will occur. It’s been my experience that they do specimen the care and repotting are up to you. The desert rose will reward
enjoy being pot-bound. you immensely for your attention and nurturing.
Cuttings can be easily rooted. Be sure and allow the cutting to callous
over for a day or two before planting in a light growing medium such
as perlite. Place in a well-lit area but out of the sun until it has formed
roots. Then only gradually expose it to full sun.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of the problems that come
with growing this unique plant. First is the tendency to overwater. Like
most succulents they prefer that the soil become somewhat dry before
watering. Overwatering will result in root rot in a very short time. Leaf
rot can also occur when leaves remain wet over a long period of time. If
possible, water at the base only. If a sprinkling method is used, do it in
the morning so that the leaves have time to dry during the day. Never
sprinkle at night.
Not many pests bother the desert rose. I have on one occasion seen spi-
der mites, but I think this particular plant was in too much shade and
showing its displeasure for the lack of sunshine. A soap-based insecticide
will take care of the critters.
In the past it was rare to find a desert rose in a nursery, but now they are
readily available in nurseries and also the gardening department of some
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 17Weed of the Month
Mare's Tail
Scientific Name Conyza canadensis
Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)
Group: Dicot
Season: Warm season
Other Common Names: Horseweed, Canadian
Horseweed, Canadian Fleabane, Coltstail, But-
By Alisa Rasmussen terweed, and Muletail fleabane
MG 2011
Mare’s Tail is an herbaceous, annual, broadleaf
weed that is native to the U.S. Mare’s Tail can
establish itself in any disturbed area from ditches to orchards to landscaped
areas throughout North and Central America specifically.
Although not listed on the US Federal noxious weed list, it is listed as a
noxious weed in Ohio. It is most unwelcome in agricultural settings where
it aggressively competes for water and reduces crop yields.
Appearance: Look for the first leaf to be football-shaped on a hairy
stalk. Later the simple leaves will have slightly toothed edges and will
be alternately attached along the stem in a rosette pattern. Mare’s Tail
typically grows as a single erect stem bearing whorls of small leaves. It
grows erect from 3-10 feet tall on usually a single stalk, branching within
the inflorescence.
If mowed, Mare’s Tail may grow several basal branches and might be
confused with hairy fleabane. Mare’s Tail, however, has darker leaves,
not gray-green like hairy fleabane. The root system is a short taproot
with a secondary fibrous root system that can extend 3 feet into the soil.
Leaves are alternate but may appear whorled as they are very crowded
along the stem. Leaves are linear, usually toothed, hairy, up to 4 inches
long and attached directly to the stem. Leaves become progressively
smaller up the stem. Stems are covered with an abundance of stiff hairs
and are hollow.
Inflorescence: Bloom time for Mare’s Tail in Texas is generally during
summer (primarily July, August and September). Flowers are borne a
many-branched panicle at the top of the plant and are very small, daisy-
like on an urn-shaped base. When mature, the flowers will expand into
seed heads looking a lot like dandelion puffs. Fruits are small, about
1/16th of an inch (1.5 mm) long, narrow, elliptical or oblong, slightly
hairy, and attached to soft, dirty-white bristles. Each plant can produce
up to 200,000 seeds that travel long distances in the wind.
Control methods: Since Conyza canadensis is the first broadleaf weed to
evolve glyphosate resistance in agriculture, the best way to control it is
to pull it out by hand while it is still a young plant, making sure to pull
out all the roots and then discard the weed. Since Conyza canadensis
reproduces by seed, it is best controlled before it produces flowers and
seed heads. In landscape beds and other areas, mulching may help reduce
Mare’s Tail establishment. Mare's tail
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 18Montezuma Bald Cypress
In your travels around town you may have noticed conditions and soils, the tree prefers sun, but can tolerate part shade.
some graceful small and medium-sized trees with Water requirements are low and it’s moderately drought tolerant. The
a single trunk and bright green fern-like foliage. tree has high heat tolerance and adapts to challenging urban conditions
These are bald cypress, an ancient genus of trees for successful street-side planting.
in the Cypress family Cupressaceae, now found
Of special interest to home gardeners are the Montezuma’s tendency to be
only in Mexico and southeastern U.S.
relatively maintenance-free, resistant to pests and diseases, and minimal
There are two surviving species and we have both in pruning requirements. The roots don’t seem to interfere with sidewalks
By Margaret on the island. Most of us are familiar with the and curbs, and they’re less likely to develop the “knees” of its bald cypress
Canavan
bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) also known relatives. Leaves, fruit and seeds aren’t a litter problem.
MG 2003
as Swamp or Southern Cypress, common from
East Texas to Florida. Recent discoveries have found bald cypress trees This tree also provides habitat for wildlife. It offers cover and nesting sites
along a North Carolina river to be for birds, harbors insects for
over 2,500 years old. their diet, and produces seeds
for small mammals.
The other species is the Montezuma
bald cypress (Taxodium mucro- This hardy and long-lived tree
natum), also known as Mexican provides an attractive accent
Cypress. The Galveston Island Tree to the landscape. With success
Conservancy has added many of thus far on the island as an
them along our streets as part of indicator, we need to continue
NeighborWoods activities, and they to add the Montezuma bald
seem to like it here. cypress to our home landscapes
where space permits. Take a
The Montezuma is the national tree visit to the 1500 block of Sealy
of Mexico, native as far north as Street to see a beauty planted
lower Texas. In its native range its during the earliest Neighbor-
striking trunk grows unusually thick Woods planting in 2010.
toward the base when mature. The There are several in the 4500
most notable example of this is a tree blocks of Avenues N½ and O
in Oaxaca, Mexico, which has devel- that were added in 2015. These
oped a trunk diameter of 35 feet to were planted as very small trees
40 feet in its many centuries of life. so you can see their impressive
growth rate. You just might
The Montezuma is mostly ever-
need one if you have a spot
green, unlike its deciduous cousin
for it.
the bald cypress. Montezuma is
faster-growing and may reach up “Tree Stories” is an ongoing
to 80 feet in ideal circumstances. series of articles about island
Young trees are pyramid shaped trees, tree care, and tree issues.
with a dense crown, maturing into If you have or know of a special
a spreading and open form with a tree on Galveston Island that
single straight trunk. should be highlighted, please
The pale green, needle-like leaves email treesforgalveston@gmail.
are evergreen in its native range and com. Margaret Canavan is a
can be so here in our mild winters. Galveston resident, a Galveston
This attractive tree provides delicate, County Master Gardener, and
feathery foliage and dappled shade. a member of the Galveston
Island Tree Conservancy Board.
Adaptable to a variety of growing A Montezuma bald cypress in the 1500 block of Sealy Street in Galveston.
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 19TMGA 2020
REGISTRATION WEBSITE COMING HERE SOON!
Proudly hosted by the
McLennan County Master Gardener Association
in Waco Texas
May 12-14, 2020
at the Waco Convention Center
Keep up to date on our conference Facebook page.
LODGING
- We have contracted with two great hotels for you!
- The host hotel, and it’s partner hotel directly across
the street, are now accepting reservations.
- Our agenda will have Leadership Training May 11th
- Conference registration opening at 7:00am on May 12th
- Conference will close at 5:00pm on the 14th.
- Special hotel rates are valid for three days before and
three days post-conference
Come, enjoy all that Waco has to offer!
Hilton Waco
- This riverside hotel is connected by a covered walkway
to the Waco Convention Center
- $149 / night
- Phone 254-754-8484
https://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/A/
ACTWHHF-MGA20-20200510/index.jhtml
Courtyard Marriott
- This newly remodeled hotel is immediately adjacent to the
Waco Convention Center
- $145 / night
- Phone 254-752-8686
https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-
link.mi?id=1558020957260&key=GRP&app=resvlink
NOTE
If you wish to stay longer, both hotels will honor the above
three days BEFORE and three days AFTER our conference
block, however, you must make these reservations by phon-
ing the Reservations Desk directly at the hotel using the
phone numbers provided above.
Presentation from August 3rd Director’s Meeting
may be viewed here.
Gulf Coast Gardening • July / August 2019 • page 20You can also read
